Benefits of Practical Life Exercises
Examples of practical life exercises with an explanation about benefits and purpose
In the Montessori method, demonstration by the teacher is very important to ensure correct and responsible use of the activities. If children are using materials incorrectly or irresponsibly, the teacher will again go through a demonstration with the child. The child gain control in the coordination of his movement, and help the child to gain independence and adapt to his society. Practical Life Exercises also aid the growth and development of the child’s intellect and concentration and will in turn also help the child develop an orderly way of thinking.
1. Walking on a line by holding a bell but without letting it ring. At 3 years of age the muscular system is fully developed to co-ordinate between various body parts. This is a balancing exercise that combines the coordination between body parts, like mind, legs, hands and eyes. The purpose is to develop poise, grace and balance. This can be done in a group by drawing a line on the floor and supplying small bells to each child.
2. Polishing skills: The children are given small spray bottles with a small amount of oil (for wood and silver) or water with a small amount of windex. Children are shown how to spray appropriate amounts on the object and then how to polish with a cloth using circular motions. Teacher puts on apron and bring all required materials in a basket. This exercise is to observe first and then imitate in their own way. The role of the teacher is to demonstrate first and then define the control of error like “shiny and no polish left on the item or on the mat when finished”. This activity is all about using containers to place dirty cloths and bins to put used disposable materials, like cotton. Encourage children to wash used plates or saucer and place it back in the basket of items for reuse. Cleans the messy mat and remove apron to hang on appropriate hook. The purpose is to gain concentration,
In the Montessori method, demonstration by the teacher is very important to ensure correct and responsible use of the activities. If children are using materials incorrectly or irresponsibly, the teacher will again go through a demonstration with the child. The child gain control in the coordination of his movement, and help the child to gain independence and adapt to his society. Practical Life Exercises also aid the growth and development of the child’s intellect and concentration and will in turn also help the child develop an orderly way of thinking.
1. Walking on a line by holding a bell but without letting it ring. At 3 years of age the muscular system is fully developed to co-ordinate between various body parts. This is a balancing exercise that combines the coordination between body parts, like mind, legs, hands and eyes. The purpose is to develop poise, grace and balance. This can be done in a group by drawing a line on the floor and supplying small bells to each child.
2. Polishing skills: The children are given small spray bottles with a small amount of oil (for wood and silver) or water with a small amount of windex. Children are shown how to spray appropriate amounts on the object and then how to polish with a cloth using circular motions. Teacher puts on apron and bring all required materials in a basket. This exercise is to observe first and then imitate in their own way. The role of the teacher is to demonstrate first and then define the control of error like “shiny and no polish left on the item or on the mat when finished”. This activity is all about using containers to place dirty cloths and bins to put used disposable materials, like cotton. Encourage children to wash used plates or saucer and place it back in the basket of items for reuse. Cleans the messy mat and remove apron to hang on appropriate hook. The purpose is to gain concentration,
References: “Fine moor and practical life skills” http://edavenue.homestead.com/